Bungo Stray Dogs’ popularity has shot up by a lot recently and like most anime, the main reason it’s so well-liked is its ensemble of eccentric yet lovable characters. Every single character is so memorable and unique, that you cannot help but root for them.
Additionally, a majority of the series’ characters are based on famous Japanese and Western writers, adding an extra layer of depth to the story. With such a diverse and interesting cast, it can be a little difficult to identify the main character. For those unaware, here’s who’s the main character of Bungo Stray Dogs.
Bungo Stray Dogs’ Main Character Explained
Bungo Stray Dogs’ world features a wide variety of individuals with unique supernatural powers. Known as “gifted,” the anime follows the story of these special people as part of the Armed Detective Agency and Port Mafia. As the Agency strives to keep the city of Yokohama safe from the Mafia, the story focuses on the Armed Detective Agency’s newest addition, Atsushi Nakajima.
Who is Atsushi Nakajima?
Abandoned by his parents, Atsushi Nakajima grew up in an orphanage where he was mistreated by both his caretakers and the other children. When he turned 18, he was kicked out due to his ability. Starving on the streets, Atsushi meets Armed Guard Detective Agency member, Osamu Dazai and his work partner Doppo Kunikida. The latter treats Atsushi to some food while questioning him about a white tiger in the area.
Atsushi admits the tiger’s been following him so Dazai convinces him to act as bait. Unbeknownst to Atsushi, though, he is the tiger. His gift, Beast Beneath the Moonlight, lets him transform into a white tiger at full moon. Losing control after his transformation, Atsushi attacks Dazai who turns him human again thanks to his gift No Longer Human. Afterward, Atsushi joins the Armed Guard Detective Agency to protect the residents of Yokohama and prove his worth.
Related: Is Bungo Stray Dogs Renewed for Season 6?
Out of the entire cast, Atsushi is perhaps the least interesting character. His backstory isn’t as interesting as Dazai’s, he’s got low esteem, and while his ability is important to the storyline, it’s far less eye-catching than Akutagawa’s Rashōmon or Kyouka’s Demon Snow. But contrary to what one may think, these qualities are exactly what make Atsushi such a good main character. His flaws leave a lot of room for character development, he doesn’t hoard the spotlight, and his goal of becoming a “worthy person” makes him a compelling character for audiences to follow.
